What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is meant for short stays in or transit through the Schengen area of a duration of no more than 90 days in any 180-day period. A visa issued by one Schengen state is valid for travelling in any Schengen state, but you must apply for the visa from the country of your main destination. If you are travelling to several Schengen states, none of which will by your main destination, you need to apply for the visa from the country that you will enter first.

A visa is granted provided that you intend to leave the Schengen area before the visa expires. In addition, you must have sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the stay and present the relevant supporting documents. A Schengen visa does not automatically permit its holder to enter the Schengen area.